The 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final between Barcelona and Santos is heated up with the thrilling individual battle between Neymar and Lionel Messi.
Somehow, the Neymar-Messi rivalry has become more notable in recent weeks due to Pele’s controversial statement that placed the Brazilian far ahead of the Barcelona superstar in terms of accomplishment.
Pele stated that what made Neymar a more complete player was his ability to score goals and to play well with both feet, on both flanks, and for his club as well as for his country. Hence, Sunday will be a time for correction for Messi in the Club World Cup final.
Even if nothing changes Pele’s opinion, both players should at least prove themselves in a game on which all eyes will be set. Below, we look at both players’ run in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup so far:
The 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final between Barcelona and Santos is heated up with the thrilling individual battle between Neymar and Lionel Messi.
Somehow, the Neymar-Messi rivalry has become more notable in recent weeks due to Pele’s controversial statement that placed the Brazilian far ahead of the Barcelona superstar in terms of accomplishment.
Pele stated that what made Neymar a more complete player was his ability to score goals and to play well with both feet, on both flanks, and for his club as well as for his country. Hence, Sunday will be a time for correction for Messi in the Club World Cup final.
Even if nothing changes Pele’s opinion, both players should at least prove themselves in a game on which all eyes will be set. Below, we look at both players’ run in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup so far:
Neymar vs Kashiwa Reysol
The Brazilian youngster was dangerous throughout the match, and his efforts paid off well before the break with a powerful goal on 19 minutes. It was clear that the hosts had hard times trying to contain the striker.
At the delight of the impressed locals at the Toyota Stadium, Neymar exhibited his best sides, only to cement his position as one of the tournament’s best entertainers after only a single match played.
Lionel Messi vs Al-Sadd
Every time he touched the ball, the crowd would expect nothing but a wonderful move from the No.10 ace. Messi did not score in the end, but it was undeniable that he did not fail in his task to keep Barcelona’s front solid. After a few blistering attempts on goal, Messi simply deserved to be involved in the build-up of his side’s third goal.
Further issues
Subsequent to David Villa’s serious injury blow, many Barcelona fans will be envisaging a replacement upfront, at least to support Alexis Sanchez, Lionel Messi, Pedro and Cesc Fabregas. Speaking of the main attacking position, Neymar is probably one of the best names that can pop up in one’s mind at present.
Indeed, the January transfer window might not end without a pile of huge surprises, and a move for Neymar to Barcelona could be considered by the club’s leading board. In the meantime though, the focus is on the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final, and neither Santos, nor Barcelona have any space for speculations right now.
What counts at the moment is the ultimate title; but for Neymar, his individual battle with Lionel Messi is particularly complex. The striker admitted a while ago that he had yet to disrespect the Ballon d’Or title holder:
“Messi is a guy who has already made history and he will achieve a lot more yet,” he told FIFA.com.
“I’m just starting out and I have a lot to do to get to his level.”
And the final appears to be a great opportunity for Neymar, especially considering that he will be facing a side that has earned his favour overtime: "Who doesn’t admire Barcelona?
“They deserve all the praise they get for the joy they’ve given to the fans and to all the people who like to see good football, which includes me,” he stated.
General team news
Santos fans can expect to see the likes of Leo, Durval, Ganso, Elano and Arouca on the field. With Henrique, Neymar and Borges all available, things should look nicely in shape for the Brazilians.
Barcelona could however start on the back foot, with David Villa out for good. Dani Alves and Xavi are anticipated to add strength to the starting line-up, whilst Alexis Sanchez could possibly start on the bench and Javier Mascherano could be left out.
As for Iniesta, Busquets, Pedro and Messi, they are set to play the full 90 minutes, so as to maintain a good balance in front. How prepared are both teams?
Barcelona’s dilemma
The injuries are certainly significant problems for the Catalans, but perhaps, if fans have something else to worry about, then it is surely history. If Barcelona beat Santos in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final, then it will be the first time they ever defeat a Brazilian side, officially.
The unforgettable 2006 FIFA Club World Cup final brings back bad memories to the minds of Los Cules. A 1-0 defeat to Internacional at the International Stadium Yokohama - following a goal from Adriano Gabiru eight minutes from time - ended Barca’s hopes of becoming world champions.
Can they make history this time by humbling Brazilian titans Santos in the same stadium on Sunday, December 18? Who do you think will shine the most between Neymar and Lionel Messi?
Pele stated that what made Neymar a more complete player was his ability to score goals and to play well with both feet, on both flanks, and for his club as well as for his country. Hence, Sunday will be a time for correction for Messi in the Club World Cup final.
Even if nothing changes Pele’s opinion, both players should at least prove themselves in a game on which all eyes will be set. Below, we look at both players’ run in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup so far:
The 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final between Barcelona and Santos is heated up with the thrilling individual battle between Neymar and Lionel Messi.
Somehow, the Neymar-Messi rivalry has become more notable in recent weeks due to Pele’s controversial statement that placed the Brazilian far ahead of the Barcelona superstar in terms of accomplishment.
Pele stated that what made Neymar a more complete player was his ability to score goals and to play well with both feet, on both flanks, and for his club as well as for his country. Hence, Sunday will be a time for correction for Messi in the Club World Cup final.
Even if nothing changes Pele’s opinion, both players should at least prove themselves in a game on which all eyes will be set. Below, we look at both players’ run in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup so far:
Neymar vs Kashiwa Reysol
The Brazilian youngster was dangerous throughout the match, and his efforts paid off well before the break with a powerful goal on 19 minutes. It was clear that the hosts had hard times trying to contain the striker.
At the delight of the impressed locals at the Toyota Stadium, Neymar exhibited his best sides, only to cement his position as one of the tournament’s best entertainers after only a single match played.
Lionel Messi vs Al-Sadd
Every time he touched the ball, the crowd would expect nothing but a wonderful move from the No.10 ace. Messi did not score in the end, but it was undeniable that he did not fail in his task to keep Barcelona’s front solid. After a few blistering attempts on goal, Messi simply deserved to be involved in the build-up of his side’s third goal.
Further issues
Subsequent to David Villa’s serious injury blow, many Barcelona fans will be envisaging a replacement upfront, at least to support Alexis Sanchez, Lionel Messi, Pedro and Cesc Fabregas. Speaking of the main attacking position, Neymar is probably one of the best names that can pop up in one’s mind at present.
Indeed, the January transfer window might not end without a pile of huge surprises, and a move for Neymar to Barcelona could be considered by the club’s leading board. In the meantime though, the focus is on the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final, and neither Santos, nor Barcelona have any space for speculations right now.
What counts at the moment is the ultimate title; but for Neymar, his individual battle with Lionel Messi is particularly complex. The striker admitted a while ago that he had yet to disrespect the Ballon d’Or title holder:
“Messi is a guy who has already made history and he will achieve a lot more yet,” he told FIFA.com.
“I’m just starting out and I have a lot to do to get to his level.”
And the final appears to be a great opportunity for Neymar, especially considering that he will be facing a side that has earned his favour overtime: "Who doesn’t admire Barcelona?
“They deserve all the praise they get for the joy they’ve given to the fans and to all the people who like to see good football, which includes me,” he stated.
General team news
Santos fans can expect to see the likes of Leo, Durval, Ganso, Elano and Arouca on the field. With Henrique, Neymar and Borges all available, things should look nicely in shape for the Brazilians.
Barcelona could however start on the back foot, with David Villa out for good. Dani Alves and Xavi are anticipated to add strength to the starting line-up, whilst Alexis Sanchez could possibly start on the bench and Javier Mascherano could be left out.
As for Iniesta, Busquets, Pedro and Messi, they are set to play the full 90 minutes, so as to maintain a good balance in front. How prepared are both teams?
Barcelona’s dilemma
The injuries are certainly significant problems for the Catalans, but perhaps, if fans have something else to worry about, then it is surely history. If Barcelona beat Santos in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final, then it will be the first time they ever defeat a Brazilian side, officially.
The unforgettable 2006 FIFA Club World Cup final brings back bad memories to the minds of Los Cules. A 1-0 defeat to Internacional at the International Stadium Yokohama - following a goal from Adriano Gabiru eight minutes from time - ended Barca’s hopes of becoming world champions.
Can they make history this time by humbling Brazilian titans Santos in the same stadium on Sunday, December 18? Who do you think will shine the most between Neymar and Lionel Messi?
